Government House Leader Announces New House of Commons Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel
News release
Ottawa, Ontario, January 24, 2024 – Today, the Government House Leader, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, announced that Michel Bédard has been appointed Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel of the House of Commons.
The appointment is being made following an open, transparent, and merit-based selection process.
The Law Clerk is responsible for providing comprehensive legal and legislative services to the Speaker, the Board of Internal Economy, Members of the House and its committees, the Clerk and the House Administration. The Office of the Law Clerk also drafts legislation and amendments for Members, and may represent Members or the House in proceedings that involve their parliamentary privileges and immunities.
Mr. Bédard has been Interim Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel since June 2022, and his appointment is effective January 23, 2024.
Quotes
“I am pleased that Mr. Bédard has agreed to take on this vital role. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience working in this Office, and I know he’ll continue to provide exemplary service and support to Members of Parliament. I look forward to continuing our work together.”
– The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
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Contacts
For more information (media only), please contact:
Mark Kennedy
Director of Communications
Office of the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
613-866-6694
mark.kennedy@lghc-lgcc.gc.ca
Media Relations
Privy Council Office
613-957-5420
mediacentre@pco-bcp.gc.ca